Group F: Nigeria

The team: Qualification wasn’t much of a stretch for the Super Eagles, who swept aside mediocre opponents Kenya, Malawi and Namibia in the group stage, before dispatching Ethiopia in the playoff. But on the way to winning the 2013 African Cup of Nations, Nigeria proved they can also perform against stronger opposition and will head to Brazil high in confidence.

The coach: Stephen KeshiFollowing Swedish manager Lars Lagerback’s underwhelming spell in charge, which culminated in a group round exit four years ago in South Africa, Stephen Keshi has turned around the team’s fortunes. His policy of selecting in-form domestic players over under-achieving familiar faces has restored spirit to the squad and made them difficult to beat.

Key player: John Obi MikelDespite mixed performances for Nigeria in the past, John Obi Mikel is now a vital presence in the team. His ability to break up play from a deep-lying position allows the attacking players the freedom to get forward.